Speaking on the Serie A club’s tour of the USA, Pallotta tried to defuse the transfer talk but warned “never say never in football”.
Asked about the Moroccan international’s future, Pallota said: “Benatia? He’s never been on the market. He’s our player and is important for the team and this season.
“You never say never in football. That said, it’s not our intention to lose our best players.”
The 27-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign for Roma last season as they finished as Serie A runners-up.
All four of the Premier League clubs credited with an interest in the £30m rated Benatia are in the market for a defender.
Roma gaffer Rudi Garcia last week attempted to dismiss the transfer speculation.
Speaking to the club’s official website he said: “For me, it’s clear. He’s under contract and he will be a Roma player this season.
“Fortunately the president makes a point of speaking with the players, he likes talking with everyone – he hasn’t just spoken with Mehdi, he’s spoken to them all.
“The only thing is that for you, the chat he had with Mehdi is more interesting than the ones he had with the others.
“In my opinion Mehdi is relaxed, he’s motivated and he will play tomorrow.
“There’s no problem.”
Benatia moved to the Italian capital from Udinese 12 months ago in a deal worth around £8m.
Written by Steve Milne
